WhatsApp to raise minimum iOS requirements for iPhone users

WhatsApp is set to increase its minimum operating system requirements for iPhone users starting November 30, 2026. The messaging application will require iOS 15.5 or later to function, raising the threshold from the current minimum of iOS 15.1.

Five specific iPhone models are identified as being affected by this change: the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (1st generation), iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus.

Users of these devices may not need to purchase new hardware immediately, as these models are capable of running later versions of iOS 15 (up to iOS 15.8.x). To maintain access to WhatsApp, owners of these devices must ensure they have installed the latest compatible software update before the November deadline.